

























COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. 

























THE WHOLE WORLD LIKES THE BOY OR GIRL WHO IS 
CONSIDERATE AND COURTEOUS 








GOOD MANNERS 

for YOUNG AMERICANS 


B >J 

CHARLES E. SKINNER 

PROFESSOR OF EDUCATION, NEW YORK UNIVERSITY 



Manners are the final and perfect flower 
of noble character. — William Winter 


BECKLEY-CARDY COMPANY 

CHICAGO 


1 . 0 * 


c\q33o 



Copyright, 1932, by 
Beckley-Cardy Company 
All rights reserved 


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©CIA 52771 


PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 



CONTENTS 


PAGE 

Introduction .9 

Preface .11 

The Kind of Manners We Want.17 

Good Manners with Older People.19 

Good Manners in the Classroom.20 

Good Manners on Stairs, in Halls and Cloakrooms 25 

Introductions.27 

Conversation .30 

School Parties.33 

Good Manners in Games.37 

A Sport Code.41 

Good Resolves.42 

Work.43 

School Loyalty.44 

Is This Loyalty?.45 

Table Etiquette.46 

Good Manners in Public Places..48 

Health Habits.51 

Personal Appearance . *.53 


[5] 




















Good Manners for Young Americans 


page 


Sleep and Rest.54 

Care of the Eyes.56 

Care of the Teeth.58 

Safety First Code.59 

Answer the Following Questions.65 

Things to Do.67 

Thrift Code.71 

Morality Codes.73 


The Elementary School Code of Morals 

I. The Law of Health 

II. The Law of Self-Control 

III. The Law of Self-Reliance 

IV. The Law of Reliability 

V. The Law of Clean Play 

VI. The Law of Duty 

VII. The Law of Good Workmanship 

VIII. The Law of Teamwork 

IX. The Law of Kindness 

X. The Law of Loyalty 

The High School Morality Code . . . 

The Ethics of Work. 

The Code of Successful Workers 
Parliamentary Practices. 














Good Manners for Young Americans 


page 

Suggestions for Parliamentary Law Drill .... 99 

Courtesy (Acrostic) .103 

Good Manners in Studying.104 

Learn to Study 
How to Memorize 
Examinations 

How to Take and Use Notes 


Correct Use and Proper Display of the Flag . . .113 

Cautions 

Proper Use of Bunting 
Salute to the Flag 
Salute to the National Anthem 
Pledge to the Flag 









INTRODUCTION 


OUNG Americans differ in health and 
prosperity. Some are born rich, some 
are born in humble circumstances. 
Some have the best of opportunities 
provided them; others face all sorts of 
difficulties. But let boys and girls differ as they may, 
there is no barrier to being courteous and well man¬ 
nered. It costs nothing; it is within the reach of all. 
The whole world likes the boy or girl who is consid¬ 
erate, kind, loyal and willing to cooperate with others. 

Good manners are more important than most peo¬ 
ple think. Nothing pleases a parent so greatly as 
a son or daughter that is possessed of a courteous 
manner and fine qualities. Teachers and classmates • 
are likewise won by these same character traits, as 
they are often called. If you would win the respect 
and consideration of others, just do your “bit” and do 
it with the utmost of courtesy, sincerity and consid¬ 
eration. 

Positions are gained and promotions secured 
through courteous and efficient service. Nobody 

[9] 







Good Manners for Young Americans 


wants an ill-mannered employee or associate; instead 
of being an asset to the firm, he is a liability. 

In this book you will find many rules and sugges¬ 
tions that are well worth following. It is not just 
knowing the rules for good manners, but their prac¬ 
tice that counts. Read the rules to find out what is 
proper, but practice at all times what you know to be 
the right and courteous thing to do. There will be 
times when you should consult other books on the 
subject. You will find such books in every library 
and book store. 



PREFACE 


ood Manners for Young Amer¬ 
icans is intended as a guide and handy 
reference volume on matters that per¬ 
tain to good form and good taste that 
arise in the life of the average junior 
and senior high school boy and girl. Teachers will 
find it worth while teaching courtesy in connection 
with life situations. The skillful teacher will set up 
situations with the definite end in view of developing 
habits of courtesy and proper attitudes. She will make 
sure that courteous behavior is attended by satisfac¬ 
tion and that improper conduct is devoid of satisfac¬ 
tion. 

The rules contained in this little book are sugges¬ 
tions. Let the pupils develop and generalize other 
rules and determine on which occasions they would 
apply. Pupil planning, purposing, executing, and 
judging is the real essence of an educational situation. 

The illustrations given in this volume were planned 
and executed by the pupils. They decided what situa¬ 
tions should be photographed and for what purpose. 

[ii] 








Good Manners for Young Americans 


They took the photographs, developed the films, 
and made the prints. Let other Camera Clubs, Art 
Clubs and English Clubs supplement what is given 
in these pages. 

Acknowledgment of indebtedness is due a num¬ 
ber of individuals for their whole-hearted cooperation 
in making this project a success. 

To Miss Emma Tantum, Principal of the Somerset 
School, North Plainfield, N. J., to Superintendent 
Homer Samuel Floyd, of Struthers, Ohio, and to Miss 
Mary McCann, teacher in tire New York City Schools, 
for suggestions made concerning the contents. 

To Mr. Ira M. Kline, Supervising Principal, Green- 
burgh No. 8 Schools, and Miss Eileen Hale, Principal, 
Westchester County, New York, for help and recom¬ 
mendations regarding illustrations. 

To Dr. H. Claude Hardy, Associate Superintendent 
of the White Plains, N. Y., Schools, for making pos¬ 
sible the securing of photographs from several of the 
schools in his city; and to the following principals, 
teachers and parents associated with Dr. Hardy, who 
supervised the project in their respective schools: 

[12] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


Principal George E. Kapp, Battle Hill Junior High School 
Principal Lillian B. Weller, Post Road Junior High School 
Principal Nina F. Palmer, Mamaroneck Avenue Junior 
High School 

Principal Frank E. Potts, Post Road Junior High School 
Principal Miles R. Jacobs, Mamaroneck Junior High School 
Miss Laura Gray, Mamaroneck Junior High School 
Miss Inez H. Shontz, Mamaroneck Junior High School 
Mrs. Grace L. Sutton, Mamaroneck Junior High School 
Mr. James Kolbe, Battle Hill Junior High School 
Mrs. James Welding, 14 Cromwell Place, White Plains 
Mr. Herman L. McCullough, Battle Hill School 

The Author 









GOOD MANNERS 
FOR YOUNG AMERICANS 



THE KIND OF MANNERS THAT MAKE OTHERS 
COMFORTABLE AND HAPPY 




THE KIND OF MANNERS WE WANT 


Life is not so short but that there is always time 
enough for courtesy .—Emerson 

The kind of manners we want is the kind that will 
make others more comfortable and happy. 

If you are puzzled to know what to do, put your¬ 
self in the other person’s place. “What would I like 
him to do for me, if I were in that situation?” The 
answer to that question will usually be the right one. 

Remember, above all things, unless real sincerity 
underlies all that you do and say, there can be no real 
courtesy. 


For manners are not idle, but the fruit 
Of loyal nature and of noble mind. 

Good manners always demand that you consider 
the other fellow. This is a principle that you can apply 
in every case. It will settle practically all questions re¬ 
lating to good manners. 


[17] 



ALWAYS STAND ASIDE FOR AN OLDER PERSON TO PASS 
THROUGH A DOORWAY 
















Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS WITH OLDER PEOPLE 

Rise when older people enter the room and see that 
they are comfortably seated before you sit down. 

Be especially courteous when conversing with older 
people. Never interrupt them. 

Notice the needs of older people and be quick in 
meeting them. If a glove is dropped, or if one mis¬ 
places his or her glasses, or feels a draught from an 
open window, pick up the glove, find the glasses, or 
close the window without waiting to be asked. 

Pupils, either boys or girls, who happen to be at the 
door when a teacher approaches, open the door for 
the teacher, and, should the teacher be carrying any¬ 
thing heavy, boys offer to carry it. 

If a lady or an elderly man needs assistance in cross¬ 
ing a busy or dangerous road or street, give die help 
both promptly and courteously. 

In small towns and in the country elderly men and 
women may often be seen carrying heavy baskets or 
bundles. If going the same way, offer to carry the 
load, especially if you know the person. 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS IN THE CLASSROOM 

When you enter a classroom, go at once to your 
seat; get to work immediately. 

Never stand close beside a teacher’s desk except 
when talking to the teacher. 

The books and papers on her desk belong to her or 
to the school. You have no more right to examine 
her papers or read any writing she may have left on 
her desk than you have to read other people’s letters. 

Put your waste paper in the basket provided for that 
purpose. Desks and books filled with waste paper 
indicate careless and untidy habits. 

Remember these things for every recitation: 

When you recite, either sit erect or stand erect. Do 
not slouch. 

Speak distinctly so everyone in the room may hear 
what you say. 

Interruptions in the classroom of any kind are as 
rude as if made elsewhere. 

Do not wave hands madly in the air when a pupil 
is reciting. If you raise your hand while another pupil 
is reciting you may interrupt him. 

[20] 




THE WELL-MANNERED YOUTH TAKES PRIDE 
IN HIS SCHOOL BUILDING 


■III 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


Do not answer a question addressed to some one 
else. 

Do not make fun of another’s mistakes. 

He who laughs at other’s woes 
Finds few friends and many foes. 

If you enter the classroom while the lesson is in 
progress, do so quietly, so as to disturb teacher and 
class as little as possible. 

If you are the first one to leave the room, fasten the 
door back. If it cannot be fastened, hold it open for 
die person behind you. 

Always stand aside for an older person to pass 
through a doorway. 

Always close doors quietly, never slam them. 

Always rise when addressing your teacher or prin¬ 
cipal. 

Be quick to show little courtesies, such as offering 
a chair or a book to a visitor. 

Be particular to say, “Yes, Miss Blank,” in answer¬ 
ing a question. 

Be careful to refer to a person by name and not 
as “he” or “she ” 


[22] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 



AN ACT WORTHY OF A GENTLEMAN 

You should always say “Excuse me,” when passing 
between people who are talking to one another. 

On entering the principal’s office, be careful not to 
interrupt anyone who is talking in order to transact 
your own business. 

Freedom to disturb one’s neighbors is not a right in 
a democracy nor in a classroom. 

Do not cast a reflection upon your home and school 
by failing to be courteous in all situations. 

Do nothing unworthy of a gentleman or a lady. 

Act as politely as you would if you were at the court 
of a king. 


[23] 







OPEN THE DOOR FOR THE TEACHER 































Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS ON STAIRS, IN HALLS 
AND CLOAKROOMS 

Keep to the right and pass quickly and quietly. 

Do not block the passageway by stopping in the 
hall to talk. 

Go up to the person to whom you wish to speak 
instead of shouting from a distance. 

Be careful not to run the risk of injuring some one 
by rushing out of the classroom door. 

Never “fool” at the drinking fountain, for you 
might break a person’s tooth against the bubbler. 

Have sufficient pride in your school to help keep 
the halls, stairs and lavatories clean. 

Do not wait for the janitor to come to pick up the 
paper on the floor; make that a part of your own duty 
to your school. 

When you get your wraps from the cloakroom, be 
careful not to drop the clothing of another. If you 
should do so, be sure to hang the garment up again. 

Fire drills are important. Therefore, during a drill, 
be silent and orderly. Never push or crowd on stair¬ 
ways. This is one way to avoid causing accidents. 

05] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


If a single entrance is used by girls and boys, with¬ 
out crowding about boys move to one side to permit 
girls to enter the building first. 

Boys: hats off on entering the building; don’t put 
them on again before you are at the outer door ready 
to leave. 

If situations arise on the stairs, in halls or in cloak¬ 
rooms where you can help another, use your best judg¬ 
ment and act promptly. Let “others” always be your 
motto. 


[26] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


INTRODUCTIONS 

A good manner often succeeds when the best 
tongue has failed .—Magoon 

There are right ways and wrong ways to make in¬ 
troductions. If a boy or girl is being introduced, he 
or she should acknowledge the introduction by saying, 
“How do you do, Miss Smith?” or just, “How do you 
do?” 

If a stranger comes to your home or school and is 
introduced to you, it is proper to add to “How do you 
do?” some expression of your pleasure at the meeting, 
such as, “I am pleased (or glad) to meet you.” 

If making a formal introduction, it is proper to 
speak both names distinctly, as: “Mrs. Smith, may I 
present Miss Davis?” 

If introducing a speaker at the school assembly, 
say: “Mr. President (or Chairman, or Madam Chair¬ 
man, if a woman), I have the honor to present Mr. 
Mason.” 

A boy or girl introduces a friend to his or her par¬ 
ents by simply saying, “This is my father (or moth¬ 
er), Mr. Wilson.” 


[27] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


When there is little time to spend on introductions, 
or on informal occasions, an introduction is made 
simply by mentioning the two names, giving the name 
of the more distinguished or more important person, 
or that of the older individual, first, as: “Mrs. Hughes, 
Miss Carter,” or, “Mrs. Hughes, have you met (or do 
you know) Miss Carter?” 

As boys or men are always introduced to girls or 
women, the name of the girl or woman always comes 
first. 

When introduced to another person, the courteous 
boy and girl always speaks in a pleasant tone of voice, 
and smiles. Try to make the other person feel at ease 
and that you are glad to make their acquaintance. 
Also be sure to include him or her in the conversation 
at the moment. 

Well-bred boys and men always rise on being in¬ 
troduced or presented to men or women. Ordinarily 
girls and women do not arise, but they should do so 
on being presented to a much older lady or to a dis¬ 
tinguished or elderly man. If a boy is introduced to 
a girl, she may keep her seat. 

Unmarried women are presented to a married one. 

[28] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


A bow on the part of the girl or woman should 
always be acknowledged with a return bow. 

Shaking hands is a custom found in some countries 
but not in others. When men or boys are introduced, 
they usually shake hands. Girls and women may do 
so, although it is not usually done. If a boy or man is 
introduced to a girl or woman, it is her privilege to 
offer her hand if she wishes. Should a man offer his 
hand, however, then the courteous girl or woman 
accepts it. 

In taking leave of a new acquaintance, the courteous 
boy or girl says, “Good-by; I am glad to have met 
you,” and may shake hands. It is proper for the other 
individual to reply with a “Thank you” and a few 
words expressing a hope that they shall meet again. 
The girl or woman does not add anything to the 
“Thank you.” 


[29] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


CONVERSATION 

The ill-timed word we might have kept, 

Who knows how sharp it pierced and stung? 

The word we had not sense to say, 

Who knows how gladly it had rung? 

Conversation is an art. The boy or girl who tries to 
be natural and who speaks in a pleasantly modulated 
voice will be liked by others. But the individual who 
talks rudely, or monopolizes the conversation, or con¬ 
tradicts others does not make friends readily and is 
apt to be heartily disliked. 

Curt answers are not made by thoughtful and well- 
bred boys and girls. Neither is it proper to answer 
with an “Uh-huh,” a “Yep,” or “Oh, yeah!” 

If you are with others, talk about matters of com¬ 
mon interest. If the group is a small one, talk with 
all the members of the group, not just one or two of 
them. 

If you are entertaining friends in your home, always 
be sure that they are included in die conversation. 

If the conversation should turn to some topic which 
you know to be embarrassing or disagreeable to some 

[30] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


one in the group, it is your duty to turn the talk to 
some other topic. 

Avoid talking when some one is playing music, or 
when some one is listening to the radio. It is also 
improper to talk in church, at the school assembly, or 
at the theatre, when it disturbs others. 

It is a sign of good breeding if you are quick to 
apologize for any mistake made or any discourtesy to 
another person. 

The individual who is constantly finding fault with 
everyone and everything is never a popular conversa¬ 
tionalist. 

As a rule, conversation should be directed to things 
of general interest, not to one’s ills, family affairs, 
troubles, religious views objectionable to others, per¬ 
sonal expenses or criticisms of others. 

Speak naturally. Do not “affect” any expression, 
use slang, slur words, or lisp “for effect.” 

When speaking to a person over the telephone, it is 
proper for the person calling to announce who he is 
and for whom he is calling. For example, “This is 
Mary Adams, calling for Frances,” or, if it is a busi¬ 
ly 3 1 ] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


ness call, “This is John Jones, a pupil in the Roosevelt 
Junior High School, calling for Mr. Smith.” 

If Mr. Smith is a teacher or principal, the pupil 
should make known his business at once when Mr. 
Smith answers. The conversation should be both busi¬ 
ness-like and courteous. When a pupil talks with a 
classmate over the telephone, the conversation should 
not be prolonged, as other individuals may be waiting 
to use the phone. 

When others are talking, be careful not to interrupt 
them, nor to stand so close as to overhear their con¬ 
versation. 

If you your lips would keep from slips, 

Five things observe with care: 

To whom you speak, of whom you speak, 

And how, and when, and where. 


[32] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


SCHOOL PARTIES 

Every action in company ought to be with some 
sign of respect to those present .—Washington 

In addition to the rules and regulations in every 
school governing conduct at school parties and dances, 
the following general suggestions will be found help¬ 
ful. School parties are held at frequent intervals by 
many schools. In some schools, dancing is permitted. 
In the interest of all boys and girls in the school, cer¬ 
tain rules should be observed. All parties and dances 
must be so conducted that they will be as free as pos¬ 
sible from reproach. 

It is customary for a boy to dance with a number 
of girls during the course of the party. Boys should 
be sure that every girl present has a chance to dance. 
Where a girl does not have a boy for a partner, she 
may dance with another girl. A boy should accom¬ 
pany his partner to a seat and talk with her until the 
next dance is called. It is generally inadvisable for the 
boy to take the girl out in the corridors or out of the 
building. 

If there is a reception committee, the boys and girls 
on the committee should greet with a cordial hand- 

[33] 




THE CHAPERON SHOULD BE TREATED WITH RESPECT 






























Good Manners for Young Americans 


shake all persons upon entering and again on leaving. 

The chaperon of the party or dance (usually one 
of the teachers, supervisors or principals when the 
party is held at the school) should be treated with re¬ 
spect. If the party is not held immediately after school 
hours, the following rules are in order. Soon after 
arrival at the party, the boy and girl should speak to 
the hostess and to the chaperon. It is proper to speak 
to them again before leaving. 

As the chaperon’s word must be law, her requests 
should be obeyed immediately and with the utmost 
courtesy. All boys and girls should remember that 
the restrictions imposed are for the good of the school 
and for themselves. 

The chaperon should not be permitted to spend the 
time alone. As she has probably given up some im¬ 
portant work or other pleasures in order to be pres¬ 
ent, her evening should be made as enjoyable as pos¬ 
sible. Neither should she be asked to change rules 
and regulations except under unusual conditions. 

When parties and dances are given, it is imperative 
that those making the plans should make provision 
for the chaperon to get to the party and home again. 

[35] 




LEARNING TO BE GOOD SPORTSMEN 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS IN GAMES 

For when the One Great Scorer 
Comes to write against your name, 

He writes not that you won or lost, 

But how you played the game. 

Boys and girls of our school want to be good sports¬ 
men. To this end, they try to help each other to play 
better and more skillfully. Forget the “razz” and help 
to create a fine sportsmanlike spirit. 

Being on a winning team is not the only way to 
prove that you are a good, clean, hard player and good 
sportsman. The good sportsman helps his team by 
encouragement, by unselfishly helping others and by 
maintaining a good spirit at all times. 

Teamwork and ability to work together unselfish¬ 
ly are very important things for everybody to learn. 

Good teamwork, unselfishness, good sportsman¬ 
ship and service to others can be shown in group ac¬ 
tivities like dramatics, cooking, sewing, lunch room 
service, etc., as well as in games. 

To be a good sportsman one must never show anger 
in defeat, or triumph in victory, or irritation, no mat¬ 
ter what annoyance is encountered. 

[ 37 ] 





THINK OF OTHERS WHEN AT PLAY 











Good Manners for Young Americans 


One who cannot help sulking, or explaining, or 
protesting when the loser, or exulting when the win¬ 
ner, has no right to take part in games and contests. 

Never lose your temper. 

Play for the sake of playing rather than to win. 

Never stop in the middle of a game if you are los¬ 
ing. 

If you are a girl, don’t ape the ways and clothing 
of boys. If you are a boy, don’t take advantage of 
your superior strength to set a pace beyond the endur¬ 
ance of girl opponents. 

Always give the opponent the benefit of the doubt, 
though it costs you the point in question. 

A true sportsman is always a cheerful loser and a 
quiet winner. 

Occasional yells for the opposing team will help 
spirit between schools greatly. Good plays by either 
team should be recognized and applauded. 


[39] 




FAIR PLAY IS THE RULE ON THIS PLAYGROUND 








Good Manners for Young Americans 



A SPORT CODE 

The following from the “Prayer of a Sportsman” 
should be your behavior ideal: 

So grant me to conquer, if conquer I can, 

By proving my worth in the fray; 

But teach me to lose like a regular man 
And not like a craven, I pray; 

Let me take off my hat to the warriors who strode 
To victory splendid and high! 

Yes, teach me to stand by the side of the road 
And cheer as the winners go by. 


BE WATCHFUL WHEN AT PLAY 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD RESOLVES 

There is no policy like politeness; and a good 
manner is the best thing in the world, either to get 
a good name or to supply the want of it .—Lytton 

I must not deface school furniture, or the school 
building with chalk marks, pictures on walls, etc. 
Such conduct shows a lack of good breeding. 

I take pride in my school building and grounds. 
They are mine and I must keep them as clean, neat 
and beautiful as possible. 

I should take pride in the good name of my school 
and do everything I can to live up to its best traditions 
and ideals. I shall also expect my classmates to do 
their part in this matter. If I fail to do my duty in 
promoting the best interests of the school at all times, 
I have failed as a citizen and my failure affects my 
friends. If any one of my classmates acts in any way 
against the best interests of the school, he commits an 
offense against everyone else in the school and the 
community. 


I>] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 



WORK 

Work for some good, be it ever so slowly; . . . 

Labor, all labor, is noble and holy. 

—Osgood 

Try to find tasks that need to be done; do not feel 
that you must do only what you are told. The boy and 
girl who are constantly finding tasks to be performed 
will never be out of a job. Employer, community, 
home, and school offer thousands of real opportunities 
to pupils who have eyes to see and ears to hear. 


BE READY TO HELP 

[43] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


SCHOOL LOYALTY 

Master, go on, and I will follow thee, 

To the last gasp, with truth and loyalty. 

—Shakespeare 

In every school there should be an effort from the 
start to make a youth imbibe that wonderful tonic 
called school spirit; to make him feel from the mo¬ 
ment he enters a school that he has become forever 
a part of it, one of its makers, and that, throughout 
his life, wherever he goes, he takes with him, drag¬ 
ging or exalting it, the name of his school. 

Discuss the following: 

What sort of a school would this be if every pupil 

1. Mastered his assignments 

2. Showed respect and courtesy to teachers and 
classmates 

3. Used the school building intelligently 

4. Used the English language orally and in writ¬ 
ing both correctly and courteously 

5. Praised the school 

6. Cooperated with others 


[ 44 ] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


IS THIS LOYALTY? 

What kind of reports do you spread about your 
school? 

Why should you praise your school? 

How have you helped your school? 

Is a boy or girl who behaves only when watched 
loyal to his school? 

Is a boy or girl, who, through jealousy, makes un¬ 
kind remarks about a classmate who excels in work, 
loyal to his school? 

Is the student who uses vulgar and profane lan¬ 
guage in the toilet rooms or elsewhere, when he is 
not being watched, loyal to his school? 

Boys and girls are judged by the way they conduct 
themselves. If a person makes himself conspicuous 
as a rowdy, he not only gives a bad impression of him¬ 
self to others, but he injures the good name of his 
school. Visitors at the school will tell others what they 
see and hear. If it is something good, the school will 
profit; if not, the school will have less support. If 
you violate the rules of the school or the laws of the 
country—whether or not you believe in them—you 
show a form of disloyalty. 

[ 45 ) 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


TABLE ETIQUETTE 

And those who first, so neat, 

Placed fork and knife quite straight, 

The glass at the right hand 
And all, as planned, 

Each day set round the plate— 

Be their praise great! 

— T. Sturge Moore 

We must remember that good breeding is displayed 
at the table more quickly than in any other place. 

Be prompt at meals. 

Allow guests to enter the dining room first. 

At the table remain standing until all have arrived 
or until the one at the head of the table gives the 
signal for sitting. 

Do not begin to eat until all have been served. 

In eating soup, fill your spoon away from you 
always, not toward you. Soup should always be eaten 
from the side of the spoon. See that you put the soup 
into your mouth quietly. 

Do not play with your knives, forks or spoons. 
Never lick them, nor your fingers. 

Do not talk with your mouth full of food. 

O] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


It is not good form to butter a whole slice of bread 
at once. 

Do not use a toothpick in public. 

Never come to the table untidily dressed. 

See that your face, hands and nails are clean, and 
that your clothes are not only clean but neat. 

Never smack your lips over your food. Your lips 
should be kept closed while you are chewing. 

Remain seated until all have finished. It is the place 
of the hostess to give the signal for rising. 

It is not good form to feed the cat or dog while you 
are eating. 

When dining in a restaurant or hotel, simply in¬ 
form the waiter (or waitress) what you want served. 
Let the conversation be businesslike but courteous. It 
is customary in most communities to leave a tip of at 
least ten per cent of the price of the meal on the table 
for the waiter. 

When dining in your own home or as a guest in 
the home of a friend, the napkin should be folded and 
placed on the table. If invited for only one meal to the 
home of a friend, do not fold the napkin when the 
meal is finished. 


[ 47 ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS IN PUBLIC PLACES 

Behavior is a mirror in which every one shows 
his image .—Goethe 

A courteous person will not make himself conspic¬ 
uous or troublesome in any place. 

You will not enjoy a concert, lecture or other enter¬ 
tainment so much if you are not attentive and quiet. 
Besides ruining the occasion for yourself, you embar¬ 
rass the performer. Out of courtesy to the speaker 
and to other people present, remain quiet whether 
you are able to hear or not. 

It is not in good taste for girls to linger on the street 
talking to boys. 

Neither is loud talking and laughing on the street 
in good taste. 

Care for your finger nails, your face, your hair in 
your room at home, not in any public place. After 
making your toilet as well as you can, forget it. 

There is no other place in which the spirit of cour¬ 
tesy seems so lacking as in our trolley cars, elevated 
trains and subways. 

In getting on a car, stand aside, and let those who 
are infirm or older precede you. 

[48] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


Always rise to give your seat to a much older per¬ 
son, to a cripple or to a mother with a child. 

Never chew gum in cars or in other public places. 

If you must chew gum, let it be within the privacy 
of your own room. 

If you do not wish to be thought ill-bred, do not 
eat in street cars. 

Boys, be careful to raise your hats, not merely to 
older people, but also to girls of your acquaintance 
whom you meet. 

Greet parents of your friends or older people of your 
acquaintance with a pleasant, “Good morning, Mrs. 
Smith.” 

“Hello!” is not a courteous greeting to an older 
person. 

If you are a good citizen, you will, of course, not 
throw trash or paper into the street, but will carry it to 
cans provided for the purpose. 

After picnicking in the country, waste material 
should be burned and the fire carefully put out. 

When it is necessary for you to wait in a railroad 
station, there should be no loud talking, laughing or 
parading about. 


[493 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


Ask questions at bureaus of information or of uni¬ 
formed attendants. Both are there to serve the public. 

When on a train do not occupy more seat room 
than is yours by right. 

It is when people forget themselves that they show 
what they really are. 

In places of amusement we are likely to forget our¬ 
selves, so we must be especially careful of our manners. 

If there is a ticket line, keep in it. The world dis¬ 
likes a “line crasher.” 

Try not to be late at a performance, as late comers 
disturb other people. 

Do not talk aloud about the performance if you 
have seen it before. Those around you do not wish 
to know ahead of time what they are going to see. 

Do not read aloud the explanations or titles on the 
screens of motion pictures. Those around you may 
prefer to read them for themselves. 

Do not throw papers, programs and candy boxes on 
the floor. 

American boys and girls should take enough pride 
in their own property and in the property of others 
to keep things in order. 


t5o] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


HEALTH HABITS 

Never put pins, pencils or other dangerous objects 
into the mouth. 

Never accept bits of candy, chewing gum, fruits, or 
whistles, or anything else that has been in another’s 
mouth unless it has been properly sterilized. 

Never wet a lead pencil with the lips. 

Do not use another pupil’s cup, glass, spoon, towel, 
comb or brush. 

Keep the fingers away from the mouth, nose and 
eyes. 

Be outdoors as much as possible. 

Wash your hands before eating or handling food. 

Drink water before breakfast and between meals. 

Do not drink coffee, tea or cocoa. 

Always carry a clean handkerchief. Use it to pro¬ 
tect others when you cough or sneeze. 

Always remove rubbers, sweaters and other outer 
garments when indoors. 

Bathe frequently so that the body and clothing will 
not acquire an unpleasant odor. 

Always remember that cleanliness renders us more 
agreeable to others. 

[5i] 




BE CAREFUL ABOUT YOUR PERSONAL APPEARANCE 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


PERSONAL APPEARANCE 

Be careful that your appearance reflects credit on 
your school, or your place of employment. 

Be careful about your personal appearance. The 
nails should be well cared for, the clothes pressed, the 
shoes polished, and the hair brushed. 

Grease spots on the clothes detract from one’s ap¬ 
pearance. 

Shoes that are run down at the heel do not make 
a good appearance. 

A clean collar and a tie often add to the appearance. 

Personal appearance is often improved by wearing 
the right color or pattern of clothes. It is good econ¬ 
omy to wear clothes of good material. 

The improper use of cosmetics often mars the natu¬ 
ral beauty of the features. The appearance of girls 
and women is often cheapened by too much rouge, 
too much lipstick, and the plucking of eyebrows. 

Courteous treatment of all callers at the school or 
place of work is a valuable investment. Attend to the 
wants of each one, both pleasantly and as soon as pos¬ 
sible. 


[53] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


SLEEP AND REST 

While you are asleep, your body is repairing the 
waste, growing and getting ready for the next day’s 
work and play. You grow a great deal in your sleep. 
That is why growing children need so much more 
sleep than grown-ups. 

The Proper Way to Sleep 

1. Sleep alone, if possible. 

2. Lie at length. 

3. Have a clean bed. 

4. Wear clean night clothing. 

5. It is best to use a low pillow or none at all. 

6. Remove all clothing worn during day and place 
it to air. 

7. Have windows open to give plenty of fresh air. 

8. There should be no light or very little. 

9. A good mattress makes the best bed. 

10. For greatest comfort, light blankets should be 
used. 

Value of Sleep 

1. It is necessary to good health. 

[54] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


2. Children and grown-ups who do not get enough 
sleep are 

ill-humored and ill-tempered, 
pessimistic and quarrelsome, 
unpleasant companions. 

3. The body needs to be repaired. 

4. Sleep makes us feel refreshed, happy and ready 
for work or play. 

Hours of Sleep 

1. Boys and girls require from nine to twelve hours 
of sleep. 

Sleeplessness 

Play and outdoor exercise are valuable in inducing 
sound sleep. Sleeplessness is a symptom that should 
be prescribed for by a physician or a psychologist. 
Sleeping powders should never be used unless they are 
prescribed by a physician. 


[55] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


CARE OF THE EYES 

Take care of your sight; upon it depends much of 
your safety and success in life. 

Always hold your head up when you read. 

Hold reading matter not less than twelve nor more 
than eighteen inches from your eyes. 

Be sure that the light is of the right degree of bright¬ 
ness. 

Never read in the twilight, in a moving car, or in 
a reclining position. 

Never read with the sun shining directly on the 
book. 

Never face the light in reading. 

Let the light come from behind you or over the 
left shoulder. 

Avoid books or papers printed poorly or in small 
type. 

Rest your eyes frequently by looking away from 
the reading-matter. 

Never rub your eyes with your hands or with an 
unclean towel or handkerchief. 


[56] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


“The eyes are such a precious possession that they 
need to be guarded carefully. Think from how much 
one is shut out who does not have the use of these 
wonderful organs that reveal all the beautiful and in¬ 
teresting things in the world around him.” 

If you have an infection of the eyes, call a physician. 
Some diseases of the eye are very serious and if not 
properly treated, loss of sight may result. 

If you have difficulty in reading when a book is 
held fourteen inches from the eyes, you should consult 
a physician who is an eye specialist. If he prescribes 
glasses, wear them as directed. 


[57] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


CARE OF THE TEETH 

All-enduring cleanliness, 

Virtue next to godliness, 

Easiest, cheapest, needfull’st duty; 

To the body health and beauty; 

Who that’s human would refuse it, 

When a little water does it? 

—Lamb 

Clean teeth improve the appearance of the indi¬ 
vidual and promote good health. 

Boys and girls should make periodic visits to both 
the dentist and the physician. 

Teeth should be brushed carefully and the gums 
should be massaged from two to four times a day. 


[ 58 ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


SAFETY FIRST CODE 

Thousands of people are killed and many more 
injured every year as a result of accidents. Many of 
these accidents are preventable. There are many 
things that school boys and girls can do in the way 
of preventing accidents. If you can save some person 
from being injured, you have rendered him a valuable 
service. A good “scout” is ever ready to render help 
and assistance to others, be they old, young, or of 
his own age. The suggestions given below are in¬ 
complete. Be prepared to add other suggestions. 

I will look both ways before I cross a street, and I 
will help little children and old people to cross safely. 

I will avoid playing in dangerous places such as the 
streets, or on railroad tracks. I will not be a jay 
walker. 

I will obey all the traffic rules of the school; will 
keep off bicycles on the playground, and try to make 
the fire drills as nearly perfect as possible. 

I will be careful in the use of matches and see that 
campfires are always put out. 

I will not take unnecessary risks, for in doing so I 
may lead into danger a younger boy or girl. 

[59] 




THE BEST SAFETY DEVICE IS A CAREFUL PERSON 











Good Manners for Young Americans 



A GOOD “scout” IS EVER READY TO RENDER HELP 
AND ASSISTANCE TO OTHERS 


I will encourage others to practice Safety as well as 
observe for myself the Safety rules and laws of the 
school, city, state, nation. 

I will obey the Student Patrol. They are working 
for my safety. 

I will always walk on the sidewalks, to be safe my¬ 
self and to save the lawns. 





Good Manners for Young Americans 



“i WILL OBEY THE STUDENT PATROL. THEY ARE 
WORKING FOR MY SAFETY” 

I will do my part to help reduce the number of 
accidents this year. 

I will make a report to the principal of the school 
when I notice a condition or practice in the school or 
on the school grounds that appears in my opinion to 
be dangerous or unhealthful. 

The best Safety device is a careful person. If pedes¬ 
trians and drivers of automobiles were reasonably 
careful, the number of street and road accidents would 
be less than one-half what they are now. 

[62] 








THERE ARE MANY THINGS BOYS AND GIRLS CAN DO IN 
THE WAY OF PREVENTING ACCIDENTS 




I WILL HELP LITTLE CHILDREN TO CROSS 
THE STREET SAFELY* 






Good Manners for Young Americans 


ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS 

The test of knowing is doing; the test of resource¬ 
fulness is being able to “carry on” beyond what one 
has just learned. The questions and “things to do” 
suggested below serve both as a test of knowledge 
and of resourcefulness. Answer each question. If the 
answer is not given in this book, then consult similar 
books just as you would do in any other case. Discuss 
the questions with members of your group. Be sure 
to do the things that are suggested. 

1. Make a list of ways that boys and girls can be courteous 
to their parents. 

2 . What courtesies are due brothers and sisters? 

3 . Tell of ways in which boys and girls can be courteous to 
maids or other employees in the home. 

4 . What are some of the causes of disagreements between 
neighbors? What rule should serve as a guide in the 
treatment of one’s neighbors? 

5 . How do charming people live and act? 

6 . Confucius said, “Eat at your table as you would eat at 
the table of a king.” Is this a good rule to observe 
today ? 

7 . How should the silver be arranged on the table ? 

[65] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


8. What should be the attitude of boys or girls at the table 
if some one should have an accident? 

9. How should a guest be treated in the home? 

10. What courtesies can be shown to your teacher? 

11. How would you use one hundred dollars given you to 
spend on your room? 

12. What courtesies can be shown to your grocer and to 
your telephone operator? 

13. Make a list of the opportunities you have to be cour¬ 
teous to others in a single day. 

14. What should a girl or a woman say to a boy or man 
who offers her a seat in the street car or bus? 

15 Plan a party for your birthday. What courtesies should 
be shown at a party? 

16. Who is your “hero or heroine” ideal? Make a list of 
courteous acts performed by your hero or heroine. 


[66] 






Good Manners for Young Americans 


THINGS TO DO 

The illustrations in this volume were made by 
pupils in the Upper Elementary and Junior High 
School grades. Make photographs, drawings, silhou¬ 
ettes, or cartoons to show the following situations and 
be prepared to discuss the situation with your class¬ 
mates : 

1. Three high school girls passing some one on a narrow 
sidewalk. 

2. Waiting in line to get a locker, or to get tickets for the 
theatre. 

3. Boy taking off his cap when speaking with a lady. 

4. Boy giving up his seat in street car or bus to lady or 
elderly man. 

5. Cartoon poking fun at a girl who chews gum, or a boy 
who expectorates on sidewalk. 

6. Taking one’s turn when boarding a street car. 

7. Hats off when entering a building. 

8. Proper conduct in the lunch room or school cafeteria. 

9. Assembly room conduct. 

10. Dining room scene. 

11. Proper use of trash can on school grounds. 

12. Boy and girl walking together. 

13. On the telephone. 

14. Refreshments served at a party. 

[67] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 



CARTOON MADE BY A STUDENT TO ILLUSTRATE! 

WHO WANTS TO BE THROWN BY BANANA PEELS ? 

15. Good manners at home. 

16. Good sportsmanship when the football game was lost. 

17. The art of listening. 

18. Picking up a handkerchief dropped by a school girl. 

[ 68 ] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


19. Helping mother. 

20. Proper use of handkerchief. 

21. A school dance scene. 

22. Cartoon showing effects of a loud radio. 

23. Cartoon showing a boy teasing a younger boy. 

24. Primping in public. 

25. Flowers for the sick classmate. 

26. Reading a newspaper on the subway, or crowded bus. 

27. Pride in personal appearance. 

28. Shaking hands with a new acquaintance. 

29. Introducing a friend to your classmates. 

30. Being courteous to the new classmate, or to the foreign 
child in your school. 


[69] 





boys: be quick to show little courtesies 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


THRIFT CODE 

A man without thought for the future must 
soon have present sorrow .—Confucius 

From the lives and experiences of successful men 
and women, we have learned much that will enable 
us to live better. Benjamin Franklin, and many be¬ 
fore as well as after him, found that thrift was an 
important quality of the good citizen. Franklin’s rules 
for thrift did not differ very much from the best rules 
that have been offered us in this age by our bankers. 
Be prepared to tell why you think good citizens should 
be thrifty, and how being thrifty differs from being a 
miser. Also, prepare a list of rules for thrift that apply 
to your own case. Consider the advantage of putting 
the following rules into practice. What additions 
would you like to make? 

When in school, I must not waste time, but must 
begin work promptly after assembly. 

I must always be on time. A tardy pupil wastes not 
only his own time but that of his entire class. 

I must not waste paper or any other material. 

C 7 1 ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


It is my duty to learn to keep my personal property 
neat and in order. 

It is wasteful to tear pages from, to mark or to de¬ 
stroy books. 

It is my duty to keep my clothes clean and in good 
repair. By being careful with my clothes and my 
personal property, I can help my parents save more 
money. 

It is my duty to treat public property in the same 
way as I would treat my own. By being careful, I can 
save money for the community and for myself. 

A savings account in the bank and an insurance 
policy are good investments that I want to consider 
making. 


[72] 






Good Manners for Young Americans 


MORALITY CODES 

Whene’er a noble deed is wrought, 

Whene’er is spoken a noble thought, 

Our hearts in glad surprise 
To higher levels rise. 

—Longfellow 

Good conduct is something that boys and girls, as 
well as men and women, prize very much. The best 
of employers want employees who have the qualities 
described in these Codes. They do not want em¬ 
ployees who are lacking in trustworthiness, loyalty, 
industry, willingness to cooperate, and courtesy. Read 
these codes to find out what qualities young Amer¬ 
icans should have according to the authors. After 
reading through each code, be prepared to make a 
code of your own. Consult your friends and teachers, 
if you like, but make a code that you think would 
fit the young folks in your school. Compare the code 
you wrote with the codes of your classmates. Revise 
your code in the light of what you learn from their 
codes. 


[73] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CODE 
OF MORALS* 

Boys and girls who are good Americans try to be¬ 
come strong and useful, that our country may become 
ever greater and better. Therefore they obey the laws 
of right living which the best Americans have always 
obeyed. 

I 

The Law of Health 


The Good American Tries to Gain and to Keep 
Perfect Health. 

The welfare of our country depends upon those 
who try to be physically fit for their daily work. 
Therefore: 


1. I will keep my clothes, my body and my mind 
clean. 

2. I will avoid those habits which would harm me, 
and will make and never break those habits which 
will help me. 

3. I will try to take such food, sleep and exercise as 
will keep me in perfect health. 


* By William J. 
Washington, D. C. 


Hutchins, Character Education Institution, Chevy Chase, 
Reprinted by special permission. 


[74] 






Good Manners for Young Americans 


II 

The Law of Self-Control 

The Good American Controls Himself. 

Those who best control themselves can best serve 
their country. 

1. I will control my tongue, and will not allow it to 
speak mean, vulgar or profane words. 

2. I will control my temper, and will not get angry 
when people or things displease me. 

3. I will control my thoughts, and will not allow a 
foolish wish to spoil a wise purpose. 

III 

The Law of Self-Reliance 
The Good American Is Self-Reliant. 

Self-conceit is silly, but self-reliance is necessary to 
boys and girls who would be strong and useful. 

1. I will gladly listen to the advice of older and wiser 
people; I will reverence the wishes of those who 
love and care for me, and who know life and me 

[75] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


better than I do; but I will learn to think for my¬ 
self, choose for myself, act for myself. 

2. I will not be afraid of being laughed at. I will not 
be afraid of doing right when the crowd does 
wrong. Fear never made a good American. 

IV 

The Laws of Reliability 
The Good American Is Reliable. 

Our country grows great and good as her citizens 

are able more fully to trust each other. Therefore: 

1. I will be honest, in word and in act. I will not lie, 
sneak or pretend, nor will I keep the truth from 
those who have a right to it. 

2. I will not do wrong in the hope of not being found 
out. I cannot hide the truth from myself and can¬ 
not often hide it from others. 

3. I will not take without permission what does not 
belong to me. 

4. I will do promptly what I have promised to do. 
If I have made a foolish promise, I will at once 
confess my mistake, and I will try to make good 

[?6] 





Good Manners for Young Americans 


any harm which my mistake may have caused. I 
will so speak and act that people will find it easier 
to trust each other. 


V 

The Law of Clean Play 
The Good American Plays Fair. 

Clean play increases and trains one’s strength, and 
helps one to be more useful to one’s country. There¬ 
fore: 

1. I will not cheat, nor will I play for keeps. If I 
should not play fair, the loser would lose the fun 
of the game, the winner would lose his self-respect, 
and the game itself would become a mean and 
often cruel business. 

2. I will treat my opponent with courtesy. 

3. If I play in a group game, I will play, not for my 
own glory, but for the success of my team and the 
fun of the game. 

4. I will be a good loser or a generous winner. 

[77] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


VI 

The Law of Duty 
The Good American Does His Duty. 

The shirker or the willing idler lives upon the labor 
of others, burdens others with the work which he 
ought to do himself. He harms his fellow citizens, 
and so harms his country. 

I will try to find out what my duty is, and I will do 
it, whether it is easy or whether it is hard. What 1 
ought to do, I can do. 


VII 

The Law of Good Workmanship 

The Good American Tries to Do the Right Thing 
in the Right Way. 

The welfare of our country depends upon those 
who have learned to do in the right way the things 
that ought to be done. Therefore: 

L I will get the best possible education, and learn all 
that I can from those who have learned to do the 
right thing in the right way. 

[78] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


2. I will take an interest in my work, and will not be 
satisfied with slipshod and merely passable work. 
A wheel or a rail carelessly made may cause the 
death of hundreds. 

3. I will try to do the right thing in the right way, 
even when no one else sees or praises me. But 
when I have done my best, I will not envy those 
who have done better, or have received larger re¬ 
ward. Envy spoils the work and the worker. 

VIII 

The Law of Teamwork 

The Good American Worlds in Friendly Coopera¬ 
tion with His Fellow Workers. 

One man alone could not build a city or a great 
railroad. One man alone would find it hard to build 
a house or a bridge. That I may have bread, men 
have sown and reaped, men have made plows and 
threshers, men have built mills and mined coal, men 
have made stoves and kept stores. As we learn better 
how to work together, the welfare of our country is 
advanced. 


[793 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


1. In whatever work I do with others, I will do my 
part and will help others do their parts. 

2. I will keep in order the things which I use in my 
work. When things are out of place, they are often 
in the way, and sometimes they are hard to find. 
Disorder means confusion, waste of time and loss 
of patience. 

3. In all my work with others, I will be cheerful. 
Cheerlessness depresses all the workers and injures 
all the work. 

4. When I have received money for my work, I will 
neither be a miser nor a spendthrift. I will save or 
spend as one of the friendly workers of America. 

IX 

The Law of Kindness 
The Good American Is Kind . 

In America diose who are of different races, colors 
and conditions must live together. We are of many 
different sorts, but we are one great people. Every 
unkindness hurts the common life, every kindness 
helps the common life. Therefore: 

[8o] 






Good Manners for Young Americans 


1. I will be kind in all my thoughts. I will bear no 
spite or grudges. I will not think myself above any 
other girl or boy just because I am of a different 
race or color or condition. I will never despise any¬ 
body. 

2. I will be kind in all my speech. I will not gossip, 
nor will I speak unkindly of anyone. Words may 
wound or heal. 

3. I will be kind in all my acts. I will not selfishly 
insist on having my own way. I will always be 
polite. Rude people are not good Americans. I 
will not trouble unnecessarily those who work for 
me. I will do my best to prevent cruelty, and will 
give my best help to those who need it most. 

X 

The Law of Loyalty 
The Good American Is Loyal . 

If our America is to become ever greater and better, 
her citizens must be loyal, devotedly faithful, in every 
relation of life. 

1. I will be loyal to my family. In loyalty I will glad¬ 
ly obey my parents or those who are in their place. 

[82] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


I will do my best to help each member of my 
family to strength and usefulness. 

2. I will be loyal to my school. In loyalty I will obey 
and help other pupils to obey those rules which 
further the good of all. 

3. I will be loyal to my town, my state, my country. 
In loyalty I will respect and help others to respect 
their laws and their courts of justice. 

4. I will be loyal to humanity. In loyalty I will do my 
best to help the friendly relations of our country 
with every other country, and to give to everyone 
in every land the best possible chance. 

If I try simply to be loyal to my family, I may be 
disloyal to my school. If I try simply to be loyal to 
my school, I may be disloyal to my town, state and 
country. If I try simply to be loyal to my own town, 
state and country, I may be disloyal to humanity. I 
will try, above all things else, to be loyal to humanity; 
then I shall surely be loyal to my country, my state 
and my town, to my school and to my family. 

And he who obeys the law of loyalty obeys all of 
the other nine laws of The Good American. 

[83] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


THE HIGH SCHOOL MORALITY CODE* 

Entering a larger life, undertaking new duties, and 
preparing for a still larger life and still other duties, 
learn clearly the law of right and follow it. 

1. Keeping ever in your heart love and honor for 
your parents, respect their wishes, be grateful for 
their care, give them your confidence, and try to enter 
more and more into their feelings and interests, and 
to be more and more their help and comfort. 

Keeping in your heart love for your brothers and 
sisters, always behave so that they will feel sure of 
you and your love. 

Be true to home. Do your part in it and for it, and 
help with heart and hand to make it the best that it 
can be. Through love of your own family, learn con¬ 
sideration and just regard for those not of your family. 
Doing your duty in your own home, learn to do your 
duty outside your home. 

2. That you may make the best of life, study dili¬ 
gently, seek knowledge and wisdom. Be respectful to 
those whose duty it is to instruct or direct you. Be 

, " Caroline M. Brevard, Character Education Institution, Chevy Chase. 

Washington, D. C. Reprinted hy special permission. 

[84] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


courteous to all and considerate of all your associates. 

Work with a purpose. Work for thorough, ac¬ 
curate knowledge, not for the show of it. Scorn shame 
and pretense; love truth and seek it. Train yourself 
to habits of order, accuracy, and regularity; industry, 
promptness, and perseverance. Learn to appreciate 
the beauty and wonder of Nature’s work and the 
beauty and wonder of man’s work. Keep your mind 
open and wide-awake for new ideas, and never think 
that you have learned all that you ought to know. 

Acknowledge and correct your errors and faults; 
but do not let thought of them weaken and discourage 
you. Do not grieve over lost opportunities, but make 
new ones. Do not grieve over bad habits, but break 
them. Do not pity yourself. Waste no time in idle 
dreaming, but with all the strength that is in you 
labor to bring about the best that you can dream. 

Keep before you thought of the work that you be¬ 
lieve you can best do in life, and prepare for it as best 
you can. But never think the work you have to do 
now is beneath you. Plough the field or build the 
bridge; bake the bread, or sing the song—do your 
work so that you make it great. 

[85] 




BE KIND TO THE YOUNG CHILDREN, WITH SO LITTLE STRENGTH 












Good Manners for Young Americans 


And first and through all make your will good, 
strengthen it, and use it. 

3. Be kind, just, and true, in your thoughts, your 
words and your deeds. Do not judge harshly or 
thoughtlessly. Keep prejudice out of your mind; rev¬ 
erence the life and respect the nature of all. Espe¬ 
cially speak the kind word and reach out the kind 
hand to the sick, the poor, and the sad; and to the 
young children with so little strength and so little 
knowledge. Be respectful to and considerate of the 
old, who have given so largely of their strength. Ap¬ 
preciate what is done for you. Enter into the feelings 
of others and adapt yourself to circumstances. Never 
suspect evil, but look for good. Be not a gossip, a med¬ 
dler, a mischief-maker. Be not curious about the busi¬ 
ness of others. Look for no slights; bear no grudges. 
Live above spite, malice, jealousy. Give envy, hatred, 
anger, cruelty, no place in your life. Be loyal and 
steadfast in all your relations. 

Do not look with contempt upon the poor, or think 
there is shame and disgrace in poverty. Do not look 
with bitterness upon the rich, or think there must be 
pride and selfishness in wealth. But appreciate the 

[87] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 



“big sisters” 


character and honor, the real worth of all, rich or 
poor, humble or great. 

And bear in mind that your law of kindness is for 
all creatures that live; so seek not to hurt, but to help; 
not to kill, but to save. 

4. Be temperate. So control desires, will and con¬ 
duct that you can deny yourself anything, and will 

[88] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


deny yourself anything wrong or harmful to yourself 
or to others. 

Learn the laws of nature and obey them. Do those 
things that will strengthen mind and body and keep 
them in health, and do nothing that will injure mind 
or body. 

5. Keep your heart, mind and life pure. For you 
there can be no pleasure in coarse songs, jokes, pic¬ 
tures or anything suggesting impure thoughts; no 
part in immodest conversation; no touching that will 
blacken you. Be neat in appearance and habits; be 
modest in dress and conduct. 

6. Be honest and just. Neither take nor covet what 
belongs to another. Take no unfair advantage in work 
or in play. Make no unfair bargain, nor seek to win 
anything by trick or by chance. To get something yet 
give nothing, to profit by the work of others, doing 
nothing in return—these things are not for you. You 
will pay the fair price and make just return, and do 
your part. 

No more rob or cheat a company or the govern¬ 
ment than rob or cheat your classmate or your next- 
[89] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


door neighbor. Respect public rights and property as 
you respect private rights and property. 

Be faithful to those who trust you or who employ 
you. No more waste their time nor hurt their interests 
than waste their money or spoil their possessions. To 
be perfectly trustworthy, entirely reliable is your 
standard. 

Be honest with yourself in every thought, and true 
to yourself and your knowledge of right. 

7. Do not waste or be careless; but whether you 
have much or little, use wisely what you have. Learn 
to do honest, useful work that will maintain yourself 
and help others. Avoid extravagance, borrowing, 
debt. But if you have borrowed, or made a debt, rest 
not until you have paid it in full. 

8. Live the truth and speak it. Be sincere. Do not 
lightly promise, for your word must be sure. There 
can be no evasion, no deception, no double dealing in 
you. 

9. Never give way to fear, nor look forward to 
trouble, but have courage. Should you meet pain or 
danger, bear the pain, face the danger, walk the 
straight road, clear-eyed and unafraid. 

[90] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


Let not your courage wait for the great day with its 
call for great deeds; use it as well in the plain life of 
everyday, for the commonplace duties close at hand. 
Have courage to live within your means, to be true to 
your shabby or unpopular friend. Stand by your con¬ 
victions, though you stand alone. Speak out for the 
right, though yours is the only voice that speaks. 

10. Let cheerfulness make yet finer your strong, 
true life. Do not indulge in depressing thoughts; but 
try to live in gladness and joy, and impart your glad¬ 
ness to others by cheerful looks and words. Find joy 
in simple things and give joy in simple ways. Be not 
a grumbling worker, not a grudging giver; but go 
about your work in cheer and gladness, and let joy 
and smiles be part of your gift. 

11. Rely upon yourself. Look for no favor or pat¬ 
ronage, but trust your own efforts. Do not shrink 
from what is new and untried; but make the decision, 
begin the work, take the responsibility. Answer to 
your own name and stand erect, yourself, not the imi¬ 
tation of another. 

12. Love and honor your country, holding no work 
for her too hard, no service for her too great. Do your 

[9O 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


part in your community, obeying law, keeping order 
and peace, helping as well as you can in work for 
good. Study the laws and government of your coun¬ 
try, that with intelligence and judgment you may 
serve her well. In true loyalty and devotion uphold in 
your own life the high standard of national character 
—the standard of good faith, justice, courage and re¬ 
gard for the general good. 

13. Appreciate your influence, and recognize your 
responsibility. Do not in any way lead others to do 
wrong, nor be amused, pleased, or satisfied when they 
do wrong. All the weight of your character, the in¬ 
fluence of what you are, must be on the side of right. 

14. Seek to gain wisdom. Learn to distinguish 
clearly between what is right and what is wrong, what 
is true and what is false, what is great and what is 
little. 

Govern yourself with wisdom. Learn moderation. 
Be generous, without being wasteful; courageous, 
without being reckless; though quick to feel, yet keep 
a cool head. Be strong, yet gentle; frank, yet cour¬ 
teous; self-respecting, yet not conceited. Delight in 
play and fun. Love freedom, yet reverence law. Be 
[92] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


kind in judgment, yet make no compromise between 
right and wrong. Wear with true dignity your silken 
gown or your scholar’s robe, as you wear with true 
dignity your working-clothes. Value the tradition of 
days that are past, yet with all the strength that is in 
you go forward into the future and make it good. 

Keep before you your standard of character, and 
follow your law of right. Be just. Be kind. Have 
courage. Keep your word true, and your honor un¬ 
stained. Control your thoughts, your will, and your 
conduct. Seek to grow in wisdom as the days pass. 


[93] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


THE ETHICS OF WORK* 

This “Code of Successful Workers” has been for¬ 
mulated from personal experience by many men and 
women who have achieved great success as workers. 
It presents their personal attitude toward their work, 
and reveals the sort of people they have striven to 
make of themselves. It is true and reliable. It is of¬ 
fered as a means by which young people can learn 
the requirements which success in work imposes on 
them. Those who work by this code will find satis¬ 
faction, honor and a good living in the world of work. 

The Code of Successful Workers 
Resolutions They Make for Themselves 

1. I will respect all useful work and be courteous 
to the workers. Work of all kinds is essential to the 
success of the world, and benefits come to many from 
the service rendered by each honest worker. I will 
respect myself, therefore, when doing any useful work, 
and show respect for good work done by others. I 
will be courteous to all workers, regard their rights, 
and make life more agreeable for them when I can. 

* Character Education Institution, Chevy Chase, Washington, D. C. Reprinted 
by special permission. 


[94] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


2. I will know my work and have ambition to do 
it well. I will keep determined to succeed in work, to 
master some one line, to develop aptitude and gain 
skill. I will keep my mind concentrated on my work, 
and make work my chief interest. I will accumulate 
knowledge and experience. 

3. I will take the initiative and develop executive 
ability. I will use business sense, have courage to make 
decisions and go ahead, be quick-witted, well bal¬ 
anced, and of good insight. I will be adaptable, and 
make all I can of my powers of invention. 

4. I will be industrious and willing. I will bring 
enthusiasm to my work, be energetic and quick about 
it, and have endurance. I will be punctual, and always 
an attentive worker. I will be patient and persevering, 
and have system. I will keep myself in good health. 

5. I will be honest and truthful. I will regard prop¬ 
erty rights, be economical of materials, and put in full 
time. I will be frank and honorable in my treatment 
of others, and preserve my personal integrity. 

6. I will educate myself into strong personality. I 
will develop force of character and have some worthy 

[95] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


purpose in life. I will use my leisure wisely. I will 
be well informed, self-possessed, self-controlled, self- 
respecting, stable, open-minded and teachable, alert, 
observing. I will be quick to understand, and of good 
memory. I will use my imagination, and be ready to 
take responsibilities. I will gain knowledge of human 
nature, show sympathy, and take an interest in peo¬ 
ple. I will be friendly, cheerful, harmonious and al¬ 
ways tactful. 

7. I will be faithful to my work. I will hold ideals. 
I will be reliable, accurate and careful. I will do my 
work right for the people who need done the things 
I help to do. I will be thorough. I will keep my word. 

8. I will be loyal. I will take pride in my firm or 
company, factory, store or farm. I will protect its 
interests, and help to make its work successful. I will 
be unselfish and obedient in my service to my 
superiors, and do good team work. In professional 
work, I will hold to the ethics of my profession. In 
an institution, I will be true to its purposes. I will be 
devoted to my home. I will be loyal to the people with 
whom I work. 


[96] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


9. I will be a gentleman—a lady. I will keep clean 
and neat, be pure and of good repute, courteous and 
polite to all. I will form wise personal habits. 

The world does not owe me a living, but I am 
proud to make a good living for myself. 


[97] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


PARLIAMENTARY PRACTICES* 

Many, many years ago people learned that discus¬ 
sions and debates of all kinds could best be conducted 
if certain “rules of order” were followed. In the course 
of time, rules governing parliamentary practices were 
adopted. These rules have been so universally ac¬ 
cepted that it is highly desirable for high school pupils 
to know them. Some of the most important rules 
governing the conduct of meetings, assemblies, dis¬ 
cussions, etc., are presented below. They are not in¬ 
tended to be committed to memory. They are to be 
applied to all forms of school meetings. When in 
doubt about the proper procedure, consult these rules. 
If they do not cover the point in question, consult a 
book on Rules of Order, or Parliamentary Practices. 

Study official reports of discussions and debates in 
congress for the purpose of acquainting yourself with 
parliamentary practices. 

Be prepared to tell why laws of parliamentary prac¬ 
tice came into use. 

* Printed through courtesy of R. S. Oldham, Principal, High School, West 
Chester, Pa. 


[98} 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


SUGGESTIONS FOR PARLIAMENTARY 
LAW DRILL 

As soon as possible all pupils should copy in their 
note books and become familiar with the following 
principles of parliamentary law. Teachers should ar¬ 
range for practice and drill throughout the year. If 
new problems arise demanding new solutions, teach¬ 
ers should add to the list such points as are necessary. 

Every pupil should know: 

1. How to open and take charge of a meeting. 

2. How to call for the minutes and have them ap¬ 
proved. 

3. How to act as secretary of a meeting (secretary’s 
reports should be written and discussed). 

4. How to address the chair and be recognized. 

5. That to make a motion he must rise and address 
the chair. 

6. That a second to a motion is usually necessary. 

(a) A motion may be seconded from one’s seat 
without rising or addressing the chair. 

(b) A nomination does not need to be seconded. 

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Good Manners for Young Americans 


7. That between the second to a motion and the 
“Question” the chairman allows discussion. 

8. That to “close debate” and obtain a vote it is 
usual for some one to call out “Question.” 

9. That the chairman must then put the Question 
to a vote. 

10. That nominations for office may be closed by 
making and carrying a motion to that effect. 

11. That a motion may be made to amend a motion: 
(a) If the amendment is lost, the original motion 

still stands, and can be voted on. 

(< b ) If the amendment is carried, the original 
motion (with the amendment that has been 
carried) must be voted on. 

12. That a motion must be withdrawn by the one 
who made it and may be withdrawn unless some 
one objects. In the latter case a vote is taken. 

13. That a motion may be reconsidered in the same 
meeting or on the day following. 

14. That a motion may be rescinded at any time when 
it is too late to reconsider. 

15. That if the pupil notices a breach of order he may 
call for the enforcement of the rules by the chair- 

[ ioo ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


man. He must rise and say, “Mr. Chairman, I 
rise to a point of order.” 

(a) The chairman must ask for a statement of 
the point at issue. 

(b) The chairman decides the point and the busi¬ 
ness proceeds. 

(V) If the pupil is not satisfied he may “Appeal 
from the decision of the Chair.” His appeal 
must be seconded. 

(< d ) The Chair must state his decision and that it 
has been appealed from and he must then 
state the question thus: “Shall the decision 
of the Chair stand as the judgment of the 
Assembly?” 

(e) After the vote has been taken, the Chair 
states that the decision of the Chair is sus¬ 
tained or reversed as the case may be. 

16. That a motion may be made to “commit” or “re¬ 
fer” a matter to a Committee. 

17. That a motion may be made that any subject be 
“laid on the table” and the motion is: 

(a) Undebatable. 

(b) Takes precedence of all Subsidiary Motions. 

C IOI ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


18. That, ordinarily, a “Quorum” signifies a majority 
of the membership of any organized body. 

19. That a motion to adjourn takes precedence over 
all others except “To fix the time to which to ad¬ 
journ.” 

20. That it requires a two-thirds vote to amend the 
Constitution and By-Laws of any organized body. 

21. That the Constitution and By-Laws of any organ¬ 
ized body cannot be suspended. 

The high spots in a typical meeting conducted accord- 
cording to parliamentary practice may be summarized: 

Calling the society to order 
Calling roll of officers and members 

Reading of minutes and approving after making corrections 

Admission of new members 

Communications, notices and bills 

Payment of dues 

Reports of standing committees 

Reports of special committees 

Unfinished business 

New business 

Discussion, address, or whatever is on the program 
Announcement of receipts by financial agent 
Adjournment 


1 102] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


COURTESY* 

C is for Courtesy; you’ve heard it before, 

In every school we need it still more. 

O is for order in all of our halls, 

Don’t rush through the mass whene’er a friend 
calls. 

U is for us; we all should use tact. 

Courtesy is a great something we lack. 

R is for rules; we need quite a few; 

We ought to obey them; ’tis the right thing to do. 

T is for teachers, whom we should respect; 
Mannerly conduct is what they expect. 

E is for excellence we never can get, 

Until rules of courtesy we do not forget. 

S is for silence; we must not be loud, 

Our halls should be quiet in spite of the crowd. 

Y is for Yuletide; it is drawing so near. 

It’s a time for our records to be spotless and clear. 

^Printed through courtesy of Nettie May Young, White Plains, N. Y. 

[ 103 ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


GOOD MANNERS IN STUDYING 

Young Americans should have information, habits 
and ideals that will enable diem to live efficiently and 
wisely. They must acquire these abilities through ob¬ 
servation, reading and thinking. In brief, the process 
is called study. While every individual must learn 
his own lessons, must do his own thinking, it is im¬ 
portant to remember that good manners apply here 
as in other walks of life. If you study aloud, you in¬ 
terfere with the work of others. If you deceive the 
teacher or your fellow pupils in what you know about 
a subject, if you do not do your share when participat¬ 
ing in a group project, if you cheat on examinations 
(or at any other time), you are not acting in accord¬ 
ance with good manners. If you do not take your 
own notes, if you forget to return the notes or books 
of a classmate, or if you fail to observe the rules of the 
library, both as to conduct in the library room and in 
cooperation with the authorities in carrying out rules 
and regulations, your manners stand in need of im¬ 
provement. The courteous youth is one who observes 
the rights of others and who cooperates in all matters 
that are for the good of all. In order that pupils may 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


better improve their time while studying, the follow¬ 
ing suggestions are offered: 

Learn to Study 

Learning by study must be won; 

’Twas ne’er entailed from son to son. 

—Gay 

Nothing gives greater joy to a pupil than doing a 
task well. Boys and girls learn how to do their work 
in much the same way that they learn to read, write, 
skate and swim. They learn to do by doing. School 
tasks often require a considerable amount of reading 
and study. Boys and girls who learn to read well and 
how to study can either get their lessons better in the 
same amount of time, or they can get their lessons in 
less time. Below are some suggestions that will help 
you to learn more easily. These rules will help you 
if you follow them carefully day after day. They will 
not enable you to get your lessons without work, but 
they will enable you to get your lessons better and in 
less time and, if followed day after day, studying will 
become more and more enjoyable. 

[ 105] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


1. Take good care of your health. If you are not 
healthy and happy, you can probably become so. Con¬ 
sult your physician or school nurse at least twice each 
year. Eat plenty of good food, including salads, fresh 
vegetables and fruits. Eat very little or no candy or 
“hot dogs.” Avoid coffee, tea, cocoa and tobacco. 
Drink six or more glasses of pure water daily. Get 
plenty of exercise, preferably out of doors. Sleep from 
nine to ten hours every night. 

2. See that external conditions are favorable to 
study. Have the light come over and back of the left 
shoulder, if possible. Sit in a chair or seat that is com¬ 
fortable. Study in a well-lighted and well-ventilated 
room, if possible. 

3. Have a regular time for getting each lesson and 
follow the schedule. 

4. When you are ready to study, have all materials 
at hand and begin promptly. Don’t dawdle. Keep 
your attention on your work. 

5. Start each study period with a determination to 
get the lesson well and quickly. Aim to accomplish 
more in the time spent. Aim to get your lessons bet- 

[ io6] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


ter and better each day. Many pupils are doing it; 
you can do it. 

6. It is generally advisable to review the work of 
the previous day (week or term) before beginning 
the day’s assignment. 

7. Study the assignments as soon after they are 
made as practicable. 

8. In studying lessons in literature, history, geogra¬ 
phy, civics and the like, it is often advisable to read 
over the entire assignment to find out what it is about. 
Pick out the important points in the lesson and be 
prepared to discuss each of them. Sometimes learning 
is made easier if an outline of the lesson is worked 
out in such a way as to indicate the most important 
points and the less important items. 

9. After reading or studying a topic or lesson, close 
your book and try to recall the important items. An¬ 
ticipate questions that could be asked on the selection, 
and try to answer them. Discuss your answers with 
other members of the class if possible. 

10. Test yourself in as many ways as possible to 
find out whether you know the main points of the 

[ 107] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


lesson. If not, consult your books, and again test 
yourself. 

11. Prepare each lesson daily, but review it briefly, 
if possible, just before going to class. 

12. Form the habit of reviewing weekly and 
monthly. 

13. Form habits of consulting external aids to 
study: a dictionary, an encyclopedia, notes, etc. 

14. Remember that reading and studying is living, 
that it is helping you to climb to loftier heights that 
can be attained only by persevering and by hard work. 

15. Above all things, keep the aim clearly in mind 
and resolve to achieve the end and reach the goal. 
One success leads to other successes. 

How to Memorize 

If you wish to memorize a poem or speech, read it 
through from beginning to end. Get the meaning of 
the selection. Write down some of the important 
points, and try to picture in your own mind the entire 
selection. If a poem, read it aloud. After studying the 
selection as a whole for a number of times, some parts 

[108] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


may be found which are particularly difficult to learn. 
Study these parts and then finish by reading again 
the entire selection. It will help greatly if you will 
try to recall as much of the selection as possible after 
each reading. Learn the selection thoroughly. Review 
it to-morrow, and again next week, next month and 
next year. 


Examinations 

In many schools, examinations are given after the 
course has been finished, or after parts of it have been 
covered. To boys and girls who know their lessons, 
examinations are pleasant tasks. They enable the 
pupil to make a check on what he has been learning. 
Every pupil should welcome the opportunity to find 
out how well he has been doing. If he knows where 
he is weak, he knows what studying he must do. 
When getting ready for an examination, study over 
the lessons and notes that are to be covered by the 
examination and try to find the connection between 
all the parts. Try to anticipate the questions or exer¬ 
cises that will be prepared by the teacher and work 
out detailed and accurate answers for each of the ques- 

[ 109] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


tions. Be definite and accurate. Make full and com¬ 
plete statements so clearly expressed that your fellow 
pupils will understand what you write or say. 

How to Take and Use Notes 

In school work, there are many times when notes 
must be taken. If you will spend a little time in learn¬ 
ing how to take notes from books and from what 
other pupils and the teachers say, the notes will be of 
value to you in helping you to learn easily. 

When taking notes from a book, write down the 
main points you are looking for, and only a few of 
the minor points. Be sure to record the notes so you 
can tell the entire story from the notes. When taking 
notes from what the teacher says, from class discus¬ 
sions, or from lectures over the radio, take down the 
main points, and then develop the story as soon as 
possible after the recitation from the notes. It is often 
advisable to follow some plan in note taking. If the 
pupil forms the habit of taking notes according to 
one set outline it will be easier to rewrite them or un¬ 
derstand them at a later time. A plan for outlining 
written work follows: 


[ no] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


A. 

1. 

2 . 

a. 

b. 

(1) 

( 2 ) 

(a) 

(b) 

II. 

A. 

B. 

1. 

2 . 

a. 

b. 

(0 

( 2 ) 

(a) 

(b) 

C. 

etc. 

It is usually best to take notes on the left-hand page 
and to rewrite them on the right-hand page. Much 

[in] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


depends, however, on the length of the notes, what 
they are about, etc. 

The number of the page, the topic and the date 
should be given at the top of the page. 

Notes should be so well rewritten that they will con¬ 
tain the best of what was read or heard. When prop¬ 
erly written, they can be reviewed quickly. When 
properly used, they are a great aid to the pupil in 
learning thoroughly and in learning to use clear and 
concise statements. 

Notes should be written in a hand that can be read 
easily by the pupil taking the notes. They should be 
rewritten in a better form so other pupils can read 
them without difficulty. 

Notes should be reviewed frequently. Be careful to 
put just the meaning into them that the author or 
speaker intended. Occasionally, it is necessary to se¬ 
cure additional information from other sources, either 
for the purpose of finding out if the notes are correct 
or for additional information on the topic. 


[ 112] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


CORRECT USE AND PROPER DISPLAY 
OF THE FLAG 

There is no federal law in force pertaining to the 
manner of displaying, hanging, or saluting the United 
States flag, but there are numerous regulations and 
usages of national recognition. Because of the irregu¬ 
lar and careless methods employed in displaying the 
flag, a National Flag Conference was called by the 
American Legion on Flag Day, June 14, 1923. Rep¬ 
resentatives of the principal National patriotic, frater¬ 
nal, educational and civic organizations met in Wash¬ 
ington to draft an authentic code of flag etiquette. 
This conference adopted the following rules for dis¬ 
playing the flag: 

1. The Flag should be displayed only from sunrise to 
sunset, or between such hours as may be designated by 
proper authority. It should be displayed on National and 
State holidays and on historic and special occasions. The 
Flag should always be hoisted briskly and lowered slowly 
and ceremoniously. 

2 . When carried in a procession with another flag or 
flags, the Flag of the United States should be either on 
the marching right, i.e., the Flag’s own right, or when 

C 1 13 ] 




LEARN TO RESPECT THE FLAG 











Good Manners for Young Americans 


there is a line of other flags, the Flag of the United States 
may be in front of the center of that line. 

3 . When displayed with another flag against a wall from 
crossed staffs, the Flag of the United States should be on 
the right, the Flag’s own right, and its staff should be in 
front of the staff of the other flag. 


4 . When a number of flags of States or cities or pennants 
of societies are grouped and displayed from staffs with the 
Flag of the United States of America, the latter should be 
in the center or at the highest point of the group. 

5 . When flags of States or cities or pennants of societies 
are flown on the same halyard with the Flag of the United 
States, the National Flag should always be at the peak. 
When flown from adjacent staffs, the Flag of the United 
States should be hoisted first and lowered last. No flag or 
pennant should be placed above or to the right of the Flag 
of the United States, i.e., to the observer’s left * 


6 . When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they 
should be flown from separate staffs of the same height and 
the flags should be of approximately equal size. Interna¬ 
tional usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation 
above that of another nation in time of peace. 


* Note: In the Navy there is an exception to this rule. The church pennant 
which is flown during divine service on shipboard, may be flown above the JNational 
Flag. This is the practice in all the navies of the world. 


[115] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


7 . When the Flag is displayed from a staff projecting 
horizontally or at an angle from the window sill, balcony 
or front of building, the union or blue field of the Flag 
should go clear to the head of the staff unless the Flag is 
at half-staff. 

8 . When the Flag of the United States is displayed in a 
manner other than by being flown from a staff, it should 
be displayed flat, whether indoors or out. When displayed 
either horizontally or vertically against a wall, the union 
should be uppermost and to the Flag’s own right—that is, 
to the observer’s left. When displayed in a window it should 
be displayed the same way—that is, with the union or 
blue field to the left of the observer in the street. When 
festoons, rosettes, or drapings are desired, bunting of blue, 
white and red should be used, but never the Flag. 

9 . When displayed over the middle of the street, as be¬ 
tween buildings, the Flag should be suspended vertically 
with the union to the north in an east and west street, or 
to the east in a north and south street. 

10 . When used on a speaker’s platform, the Flag, if dis¬ 
played flat, should be displayed above and behind the 
speaker. It should never be used to cover the speaker’s desk 
nor to drape over the front of the platform. If flown from 
a staff it should be in the position of honor, on the speaker’s 
right. 


[ n6] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


11. When used in connection with the unveiling of a 
statue or monument, the Flag should form a distinctive 
feature during the ceremony, but the Flag itself should never 
be used as the covering for the statue. 

12 . When flown at half-staff, the Flag is first hoisted to 
the peak and then lowered to the half-staff position; but 
before lowering the Flag for the day it is raised again to 
the peak. On Memorial Day, May 30 , the Flag is displayed 
at half-staff from sunrise until noon and at full-staff from 
noon until sunset, for the Nation lives and the Flag is the 
symbol of the living Nation. 

13 . Flags flown from fixed staffs are placed at half-staff 
to indicate mourning. When the flag is displayed on a small 
staff, as when carried in a parade, mourning is indicated by 
attaching two streamers of black crepe to the spearhead, 
allowing the streamers to fall naturally. Crepe is used on the 
flagstaff only by order of the President. 

14 . When used to cover a casket, the Flag should be 
placed so that the union is at the head and over the left 
shoulder. The Flag should not be lowered into the grave 
nor allowed to touch the ground. The casket should be 
carried foot first. 

15 . When the Flag is displayed in the body of church, 
it should be from a staff placed on the congregation’s right 
as they face the clergyman. The service flag, the State flag 

C117] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


or other flag should be at the left of the congregation. If 
in the chancel, or on the platform, the Flag of the United 
States should be placed on the clergyman’s right as he faces 
the congregation, and other flags on his left. 

16 . When the flag is in such a condition that it is no 
longer a fitting emblem for display, it should not be cast 
aside or used in any way that might be viewed as disrespect¬ 
ful to the national colors, but should be destroyed as a whole 
privately, preferably by burning or by some other method 
in harmony with the reverence and respect we owe to the 
emblem representing our country. 

CAUTIONS 

1. Do not permit disrespect to be shown to the flag of the 
United States of America. 

2 . Do not dip the flag of the United States of America 
to any person or any thing. The regimental color, State flag, 
organization, or institutional flag will render this honor. 

3 . Do not display the flag with the union down except as 
a signal of distress. 

4 . Do not place any other flag or pennant above or, if on 
the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States 
of America. 

5 . Do not let the flag touch the ground or the floor or 
trail in the water. 

6 . Do not place any object or emblem of any kind on or 
above the flag of the United States of America. 

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Good Manners for Young Americans 


7 . Do not use the flag as drapery in any form whatsoever. 
Use bunting of blue, white, and red. 

8 . Do not fasten the flag in such manner as will permit 
it to be easily torn. 

9 . Do not drape the flag over the hood, top, sides, or back 
of a vehicle or of a railroad train or boat. When the flag 
is displayed on a motor car, the staff should be affixed firmly 
to the chassis or clamped to the radiator cap. 

10 . Do not display the flag on a float in a parade except 
from a staff. 

11 . Do not use the flag as a covering for a ceiling. 

12 . Do not carry the flag flat or horizontally, but always 
aloft and free. 

13 . Do not use the flag as a portion of a costume or of 
an athletic uniform. Do not embroider it upon cushions or 
handkerchiefs nor print it on paper napkins or boxes. 

14 . Do not put lettering of any kind upon the flag. 

15 . Do not use the flag in any form of advertising nor 
fasten an advertising sign to a pole from which the flag is 
flown. 

16 . Do not display, use, or store the flag in such a man¬ 
ner as will permit it to be easily soiled or damaged. 

PROPER USE OF BUNTING 

Bunting of blue, white, and red should be used for cov¬ 
ering a speaker’s desk, draping over the front of a platform, 

C119] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


and for decoration in general. Bunting should be arranged 
with the blue above, the white in the middle, and the red 
below. 

SALUTE TO THE FLAG 

During the ceremony of hoisting or lowering the flag or 
when the flag is passing in a parade or in a review, all per¬ 
sons present should face the flag, stand at attention, and 
salute. Those present in uniform should render the right- 
hand salute. When not in uniform, men should remove the 
headdress with the right hand and hold it at the left shoul¬ 
der, the hand being over the heart. Women should salute 
by placing the right hand over the heart. The salute to the 
flag in the moving column is rendered at the moment the 
flag passes. 


SALUTE TO NATIONAL ANTHEM 

When the National Anthem is played and the flag is not 
displayed, all present should stand and face toward the 
music. Those in uniform should salute at the first note of 
the Anthem, retaining the position until the last note. All 
others should stand at attention, men removing the head¬ 
dress. When the flag is displayed, the regular “Salute to the 
Flag” should be given. 

The “Star-Spangled Banner” is recommended for univer¬ 
sal recognition as the National Anthem. 

C 120 ] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


PLEDGE TO THE FLAG 

In pledging allegiance to the flag of the United States of 
America, the approved practice in schools, which is suitable 
also for civilian adults, is as follows: 

Standing with the right hand over the heart, all repeat 
together the following pledge: 

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of 
America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation 
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” 

At the words “to the flag,” the right hand is extended, 
palm upward, toward the flag and this position is held until 
the end, when the hand, after the words “Justice for all,” 
drops to the side. 

However, civilian adults will always show full respect to 
the flag, when the pledge is being given, by merely stand¬ 
ing at attention, men removing the headdress. Persons in 
uniform should render the right-hand salute. 


These rules are accepted by the United States Flag 
Association, organized April 9, 1924, for the purpose 
of bringing “into greater consideration and higher 
appreciative regard by the citizenry of the Republic 
the Flag of the United States and the ideals, tradi¬ 
tions, principles, and institutions for which it stands.” 

[ 121 ] 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


The Stars and Stripes fly officially night and day 
continuously over the east and west fronts of the Na¬ 
tional Capitol. These two flags over the Capitol are 
replaced every six months, due to the excessive wear 
and tear of wind and rain. 

The flag flies over the White House from sunrise 
until sunset only when the President is in Washington. 

The flag should be displayed on all patriotic occa¬ 
sions, especially on the following days: 

Lincoln’s Birthday. February 12 

Washington’s Birthday. February 22 

Mother’s Day. Second Sunday in May 

Memorial Day. May 30 

(Displayed at half-staff until noon and then 
at full-staff until sunset) 

Flag Day. June 14 

Independence Day. July 4 

Armistice Day. November 11 

Of course there are other special days in certain 
localities on which the flag is displayed. 


1 122] 






































INDEX 


Accidents,, avoid causing, 25; num' 
ber of would be less, 62; pre* 
ventable, 59; suggestions to pre' 
vent, 59 

Act, politely, 23 

American Legion, flag conference 
called by, 113 

Amusement, places of, manners in, 
50 

Answer, do not, question addressed 
to some one else, 22 
Answering a question, 22 
Apologize,, if quick to, 31 
Appearance, personal, 53; how im' 
proved, 53 

Assistance, give when needed, 19 
Attendants, uniformed, ask ques* 
tions of, 50 

Bathe frequently, 51 
Bow, a, should be acknowledged, 
29 

Boys, raise hats, 49 
Bureaus of information,, 50 

Campfires, see that, are put out, 59 
Car, in getting on a, 48; give your 
seat in, to whom, 49 
Carry anything heavy for teacher, 
19; baskets or bundles, when to, 
19 

Cars, trolley, courtesy lacking in, 
48 

Chaperon, courtesy to„ 35; her word 
law, 35; how to treat, 35; pro' 
vision for, 35 

Classmates, expect, to do their 
part, 42; if one acts against in' 
terests of school, 42 


Classroom, good manners in, 20, 

22 

Clean play, the law of, 77 
Cleanliness makes us more agree' 
able, 51 

Cloakroom, good manners in, 25 
Code of morals, the elementary 
school, 74 
Conduct, good, 73 
Conversation, 30; an art, 30; 
should be directed, 31; over tele' 
phone, 31 

Cosmetics, improper use of, 53 
Courteous person, a, not conspic' 
uous, 48 

Courtesies,, little, 22 
Courtesy (acrostic), 103 
Courtesy, no real, without sincer' 
ity, 17; to speaker and others, 48 
Crossing road or street, lady or eh 
derly man, help, 19 
Curt answers, not made by well' 
bred, 30 

Dance,, boy to, with a number of 
girls, 33; partner, boy to accom' 
pany to seat, 33 
Dances, how conducted, 33 
Dancing permitted in some schools, 
33 

Deface, do not, school furniture, 
42; school building, 42 
Dentist, periodic visits to, 58 
Desk, teacher’s, never stand close 
beside, 20 

Dictionary, habit of consulting, 108 
Dining, when, in restaurant or ho' 
tel, 47 


[ 125 1 


Good Manners eor Young Americans 


Disloyalty, a form of, 45 
Doors, fasten back, 22; close quiet' 
ly„ 22 

Drinking fountain, never “fool" at, 
25 

Drivers of automobiles, could re¬ 
duce accidents, 62 
Duty, the law of, 78 

Economy, good, 53 
Employees, who have qualities 
wanted, 73; not wanted if lack' 
ing, 73 

Encyclopedia, habit of consulting, 
108 

Entrance, single,, boys move to one 
side of, 26 
Etiquette, table, 46 
Examinations, 109; cheating in, 
104; getting ready for, 109 
“Excuse me," when to say, 23 
Eye specialist, consult, when, 57 
Eyes, care of the, 56 

Face,, care for at home, 48 
Finding fault, 31 

Finger nails, care for at home, 48 
Fingers, keep away from mouth, 
nose and eyes, 51 
Fire drills, conduct during, 25 
Flag, use and display of, 113; time 
of display, 113; in procession, 
113; with another flag, 115; with 
a number of other flags, 115; 
with flags of states or cities., 115; 
with pennants, 115; position of 
flag, 115; with flags of two or 
more nations, 115; from staff 
projecting horizontally, 116; dis' 
played in manner other than 


from staff, 116; displayed over 
middle of street, 116; when used 
on speaker’s platform, 116; in 
connection with unveiling statue 
or monument, 117; when flown 
at half'Staff, 117; flown at half' 
staff to indicate mourning, 117; 
when used to cover a casket, 117; 
when displayed in body of 
church, 117; disposal of, 118; 
cautions,, 118; salute to, 120; 
pledge to, 121 

Franklin, Benjamin, his thrift, 71; 
his rules on thrift, 71 

Gaines, good manners in, 37 
Garments, outer, remove when in' 
doors, 51 

Glasses, eye, if prescribed, wear, 57 
Good breeding displayed at table, 
46 

Good manners, with older people, 
17; in the classroom, 20; on 
stairs, in halls and cloakrooms, 
25; in games, 37; in public places, 
48 

Good taste, not in, for girls to lin' 
ger on street, 48 
Grease spots, 53 
Gum, never chew in public, 49 
Gums, should be massaged,, 58 

Hair, care for at home, 48 
Halls, good manners in„ 25 
Hats, boys’ off, 26 
Health habits, 51 
Health, law of, 74; take care of 
your, 106 

Hello, not courteous greeting, 49 
Hostess to give signal for rising, 47 



Good Manners for Young Americans 


Ilhbred, to eat in street cars, 49 
Interrupt, never, older people, 19; 

be careful not to, 23, 32 
Interruptions, in classroom rude, 20 
Introductions, 27; on informal oc' 
casions, 28; of boys or men, 28; 
of girls or women, 28 

Janitor, do not wait for, to pick up 
paper, 25 

Judged, boys and girls are, 45 

Kindness, the law of, 80 

Lavatories, keep clean, 25 
Laws of country, if you violate, 45 
Lesson, prepare each daily, 108 
Library, failure to observe rules of, 
104 

Light, for study, 106 

“Line crasher,” 50 

Loyalty, school, 44; the law of, 82 

Manners, the kind we want, 17 
Manners, good, demand of, 17 
Matches,, careful use of, 59 
Memorize, how to, 108 
Mistakes, do not make fun of, 22 
Morality Code, The High School, 
84 

Morality Codes, 73 
Morals, The Elementary school 
code of, 74 

Nails, see Finger nails 
Name, refer to person by, 22 
Napkin, when dining, 47 
National anthem, salute to, 120 
Needs of older people, notice, 19 
Notes, how to take and use, 110 


Office, principal's, entering, 23 
Opponent, give benefit of doubt, 
39 

Opposing team, yells for, 39 
“Others,” let, be your motto, 26 
Overhear, do not stand so close as 
to, 32 

Parents and older people, how to 
greet, 49 

Parliamentary law, suggestions for 
drill, 99 

Parliamentary practices, 98 
Parties, school, 33; rules for, should 
be observed, 33; reception com* 
mittee, 33 

Pedestrians, could reduce accidents, 
62 

Performance, try not to be late at, 
50; do not talk aloud about, 50 
Personal property, duty of keeping 
in order, 72 

Physician, periodic visits to, 58 
Picnicking, burn waste after, 49 
Practice, dangerous or unhealthful, 
report of, 62 

“Prayer of a Sportsman,” lines 
from, 41 

Pride, have, in your school, 25; 
take, in school building and 
grounds, 42; in good name of 
school, 42; take, in own prop' 
erty, 50 

Questions, where to ask, 50 
Questions, answer the following, 65, 
66 

Railroad station, while waiting in, 
49 

Reflection, do not cast, a, 23 


[ 127] 




Good Manners for Young Americans 


Reliability, the laws of, 76 
Remarks, unkind, about a classmate, 
45 

Reports about school, 45 
Resolves,, good, 42 
Restrictions imposed for good of 
school, 35 

Right, keep to, in passing, 25 
Rise, when addressing teacher or 
principal, 22; boys and men, 
when introduced to men or worn' 
en, 28; to give your seat, 49 
Risks, unnecessary, 59 
Rules and regulations, not to be 
changed except under unusual 
conditions, 35 
Rules of Order, 98 
Rules of School, if you violate, 45 
Rushing out of door, be careful not 
to run risk, 25 

Safety, practice of, 61; rules of, 61; 
device, 62 

Safety First Code, 59 
Savings account, a good invest' 
ment, 72 

Seat, give to whom, 49 
Self'control, law of, 75 
Self-reliance, law of, 75 
Shaking hands, 29 
Shoes, run down at heel, 53 
Sidewalks, walk on, 61 
Sincerity, underlies courtesy, 17 
Situations on stairs, 26 
Sleep and rest, 54; proper way to, 
55; value of, 54; hours of, 55 
Sleeplessness, 55 
Speak distinctly, 20 
Sport code, a, 41 


Sportsman, a, good, 37; true, 39; 

prayer of a, 41 
Sportsmanlike spirit, a, 37 
Stairs, help keep clean, 25 
Street cars, do not eat in, 49 
Student patrol, obey, 61 
Study, learn to, 105; rules of, 105; 
period, 106 

Studying, good manners in, 104 

Table etiquette, 46 
Talking, avoid, when, 31 
Tasks, finding, 43 
Tea, do not drink,, 51; avoid, 106 
Teamwork, 37; good, 37; the law 
of, 79 

Teeth, care of, 58 

Telephone, speaking over, 31 

Temper, never lose, 39 

Thrift, code, 71; rules, 71 

Ticket line, 50 

Time, must not waste, 71 

Tip, customary, 47 

Tobacco, avoid, 106 

Toilet, after making, forget, 48 

Toothpick, do not use in public, 47 

Traffic rules of school, obey, 59 

Train, when on, 50 

Trains, courtesy lacking in, 48 

Trash, do not throw into street, 49 

Unselfishness in sports, 37 

Visitors at school, 45 
Vulgar or profane language, 45 

Waste paper, 20 
Water, drink, 51 
Work, 43; ethics of, 94 
Workers, code of successful, 94 
Workmanship, the law of good, 78 


[128] 




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